Post navigation

Mangrove restoration in Mexico

Mangroves are among the oldest and most productive wetland forests on our planet. Found in the intertidal zone, they are uniquely adapted to survive highly saline and anoxic conditions. They are ideal habitats for many terrestrial and marine species, carbon sinks and natural barriers against storm surges and coastal erosion. Mangroves provide invaluable services but have been declining worldwide as a result of anthropogenic and other threats.

Guardians of our Coast showcases the fascinating web of life that surrounds these tidal forests. The movie highlights the unique collaboration between governments, regional and local institutions, NGOs and local communities, in efforts to save these vulnerable ecosystems and restore them to their former glory.

India has been a part of the Mangrove for the Future (MFF) regional initiative since 2006. Our programme is guided by the National Strategy and Action Plan with primary focus on research, livelihood security, learnings for policy interventions and knowledge dissemination.

MFF India actively works with the private sector in environmentally sustainable business practices and coastal area development. In addition to continuing our work at a national level, MFF India will play a vital role in future studies/initiatives that develop our capacity to manage coastal ecosystems from a regional approach.

Over the next three years, Pronatura aims to restore 15 hectares of mangrove and provide economic benefits to local communities using this important habitat.

Pronatura Sur A.C. (BirdLife in Mexico) has been working with local communities on mangrove restoration in the Pacific coast of Oaxaca and Chiapas states for 15 years. The work covers 800 ha in three areas: Mar Muerto, La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve – both Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas – and Conquista Campesina.

Project leader Marylin Bejarano says the areas could eventually be connected together. “That’s why our work is called the Mangrove and Climate Change Corridor Initiative”.

“Mangrove forests are among the highest carbon reservoirs of the tropical forests, and the mangroves in La Encrucijada are among he tallest in the entire Mesoamerican region from Panama to Mexico.” …

The mangroves hold an important population of plants, mammals and birds. As well as the resident species the mangroves are located on the crossroads of migratory bird flyways for the Pacific coast and the Gulf of Mexico.